2025 is a wrap…. All I can say is Thank You!
It has been a great honor leading the AIA San Mateo County chapter, and this experience of working with the peers of our aspired profession is truly rewarding. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude and share some highlights of the year.
We continued to focus on creating opportunities to connect and support the members through diverse educational events and programs. From virtual Lunch and Learns to building design presentations, we offered 30 different events with 36 learning units to meet this knowledge-sharing goal. On-demand virtual learning courses on ZNCD and ADA were also added to provide a one-stop shop for architects’ re-licensing requirements. I was particularly inspired by the home and construction tours featuring our members’ work, and the new technology series like the Hoover Elementary School mass-timber buildings tour.
We brought back fan-favorite social events that celebrated the camaraderie of our close-knit community. The Summer Social in August was a fun and festive evening. We shared some good laughs, enjoyed great beers, and raised funds for the chapter’s Academic Scholarship programs. Did I mention that the chapter awarded a record number of scholarships this year? The House of Cards was another popular event that brought architects, students, and sponsors together competing for the grand prizes! Other notable (and new) networking events, such as the Women of Carbon documentary screening by the COTE committee, connected us with neighboring AIA chapters and other design professional organizations.
We dedicated our efforts to improving the messaging and communication platform to align with the changes of the membership and the profession. With the support of the Board, the chapter’s Strategic Plan Update was completed with key themes focusing on Engagement, Advocacy, Education, and Governance. Parallel to this important work, we also explored different ways to enhance members’ outreach through digital platforms. New features were added to the weekly newsletter, such as member highlights, monthly birthday celebrations, and we extended news coverage and learning resources beyond what’s happening in the Bay Area. I hope that you enjoyed the Riddle of the Week and the hilarious holiday party Instagram posts!
All these events and programs could not be achieved without the generous support of our sponsors, the leadership of the Board and sub-committees, the dedication of the Executive Staff, and help from student volunteers. Most importantly, it’s YOU that motivates us to do our best to serve the profession and the San Mateo County communities. I am truly thankful for your support and participation, and most importantly, our friendship!
I am already looking forward to next year and the leadership of incoming president, Iva Monterrubio Langrova, Assoc AIA, and the 2026 Board of Directors. See you at the next chapter event in January.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year!
Kenny Hung AIA 2025 AIASMC Chapter President